Bringing Parents Home..

There is a Universal Design in the 21st Century Home…

Family living is changing. More generations live under the same roof, and many families are bringing their older parents to live with them due to both preference and need. Multi-generational households are more common today than they were even ten years ago. Planning ahead of time when you are remodeling or upgrading your home can pay off in the long run. Adapting rooms for a future when older relatives may move in can provide benefits for younger children in the house today.

Universal design is a concept that believes space can be used to the greatest extent possible by people regardless of age, size, ability, or disability.

Having one bathroom sink that is lower than others in the home can accommodate both the toddler and an aging parent who may use a wheelchair. Lowering wall switches and illuminating them benefit young children and older adults who have difficulties seeing at night.

As baby boomers trend towards aging in place, accommodating needs such as mobility and vision issues are an excellent first step for the future, and it could increase your home value if you decide to sell.

Read HERE for ten guidelines to implement during the planning stages of construction.